I'll remember forever, when I was but three
Mama, who was clever remarking to me:
"If, son, when you're grown up, you want everything nice
I've got your future sewn up if you take this advice:

Be a clown
Be a clown
All the world loves a clown
Act the fool, play the calf
And you'll always have the last laugh
Wear the cap and the bells
And you'll rate with all the great swells
If you become a doctor, folks'll face you with dread
If you become a dentist, they'll be glad when you're dead
You'll get a bigger hand if you can stand on your head
Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!

Be a clown
Be a clown
All the world loves a clown
Be a crazy buffoon
And the 'demoiselles'll all swoon
Dress in huge baggy pants
And you'll ride the road to romance
A butcher or a baker ladies never embrace
A barber for a beau would be a social disgrace
They all'll come to call if you can fall on your face
Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!
Be a clown
Be a clown
All the world loves a clown
Be the poor silly ass
And you'll always travel first class
Give 'em quips, give 'em fun
And they'll pay to say you're A-1
If you become a farmer you've the weather to buck
If you become a gambler, you'll be stuck with your luck
But jack you'll never lack if you can quack like a duck
Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!